From Palm Beach, Florida -
A night after a Republican debate that he described as "elegant," Donald Trump secured the public endorsement of his former GOP rival Ben Carson, as Trump looked to not only consolidate his support but also ensure a round of victories next Tuesday.
"Today is something very, very special," Trump told reporters at a news conference with Carson at the Mar-A-Lago club, just a chip shot away from the Atlantic Ocean.
Asked about endorsing someone who had described him as "pathological" just a few months ago, Carson said the two men had "buried the hatchet," writing off the insults to the heat of a race for President.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
"He is actually a very intelligent man who cares deeply about America," Carson told reporters.
"There's a lot more alignment - philosophically and spiritually - than I ever thought there was," Carson said of Trump.
Asked about Carson's role in his campaign, Trump said, "Ben is going to have a big, big part," as the GOP front runner said he would look to Carson for support on education and health issues.
As for the state of the Republican race, Trump repeated his line from the debate at the University of Miami, urging Republicans to embrace the new voters he has brought into the GOP primary race.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
"I've had so many people tell me, I've never voted Republican in my life," Trump added, making it clear he thinks he is on his way to being the GOP standard bearer in 2016.
Before the event began, Trump was being brought toward the room where he would meet reporters - I could hear him on the other side of the door saying he wanted to peek, even though his staff said it was where reporters like me were standing.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
As Trump wrapped up his news conference, he urged reporters to take advantage of the Mar-A-Lago club before running off to their next event.
"Go outside; we have coffee and drinks," Trump said.
"Enjoy yourselves," Trump said
Clearly, Donald Trump seems to be enjoying his spot right now in the GOP race.
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